Monthly Archives: January 2013

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Bertha…has dared me to participate in Lungleavin Day…unless…I’m afraid to…that is…then…just in case I was…she made it a…double dog…which of course…I can’t refuse…I’m just thankful I don’t have to touch my tongue to a frozen flag pole…yes…I still cringe when I see that movie…but…I understand…dares and honor…

Anyway…I will be participating in Lungleavin Day…I know…you are probably wondering what it is…and…to be honest…until Heather Von St. James contacted me…I’d never heard of it either…but…I have to agree with…Bertha…it is an awesome celebration…all about releasing fear…but…I think I’ll let Heather tell you about it in her own words…

I am 44 and a mother to a quirky little 7 year old, Lily. She is my only child and I couldn’t imagine my world without her. When Lily was just 3 ½ months old, I was diagnosed with Mesothelioma; a rare type of cancer caused by asbestos exposure, which kills 90-95% of those who have it. After intense treatment and a long recovery, almost 7 years later I’m still here and cancer free! My journey through cancer was quite a terrifying one and I’d like to turn my struggles and obstacles into inspiration and hope for others. One of many things that came out of my battle with cancer is a holiday I created called Lungleavin Day. This is the anniversary of my surgery (Feb 2nd) in which my entire left lung was removed. Lungleavin Day is a celebration of life and facing your fears. Each year we celebrate with nearly 100 loved ones. The idea of this day is for everyone to fill a blank plate with their fears and smash it into a bonfire at my Lungleavin day party, symbolizing people throwing their fears to the fire. I also use Lungleavin day as a fundraiser for mesothelioma research.

Okay…I’m in…Bertha…doesn’t have to twist my arm…I’m thinking a paper plate and shredding…since I can’t have an open fire outside where I live…but…it’s one of those things…it’s the intention behind the action…not the action itself that really matters…

But…even as I type this…I realize that releasing fear…isn’t all that easy…in so many ways…I let my fears define me…Bertha…says it’s time for a new definition…